PNP to oppose NPA leader's transfer to Camp Crame

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) would oppose a court order calling for the transfer of communist leader Tirso Alcantara from Fort Bonifacio to Camp Crame, a military officer said yesterday.

Army spokesman Maj. Harold Cabunoc said Chief Superintendent Cesar Magsino, head of the PNP Custodial Center, would file a formal opposition to the order since his office lacks suitable detention facilities.

“He (Magsino) also said that he has requested the deferment of the transfer of Tirso Alcantara to their custody,” Cabunoc said. 

Alcantara, who is facing at least 30 criminal cases, including arson, multiple murder, and robbery, is currently detained at the Army Custodial Center in Fort Bonifacio. 

Last July, the Regional Trial Court Branch 61 in Gumaca, Quezon issued a resolution ordering the transfer of Alcantara’s custody to the PNP. 

The PNP Custodial Center based at Camp Crame in Quezon City received the court order last Aug. 13. 

Cabunoc said the PNP earlier had cited the lack of suitable detention facilities and raised some security matters related to the transfer of Alcantara to Quezon province and back during hearings. 

“The Army is ready to follow the court ruling once the administrative problems of the PNP are ironed out,” Cabunoc said.

“Alcantara is treated fairly, receives health care, and is in good health condition while inside the military detention facility,” he added. 

Alcantara is attending hearings in various courts in Misamis Oriental, Sta. Cruz in Laguna, Gumaca and Lucena City in Quezon province, and Pasig City.

Alcantara, leader of New People’s Army fighters in Southern Luzon, was arrested by security forces in Lucena City last Jan. 4.